Overview
Why SEL?
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is an evidence-based approach designed to help students acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Implementing SEL in schools has been shown to enhance students’ social and emotional skills, improve attitudes towards self and others, and increase academic performance. SEL programs, like Our Path SEL, are particularly crucial in today’s complex and fast-paced world, providing students with the tools to navigate personal and social challenges effectively.
SEL Statistics
SEL, or Social and Emotional Learning, is the foundation of Our Path curricula.
Grounded in evidence-based practices, SEL has proven benefits, as highlighted by a 2017 Columbia University study.
This research revealed a notable $11 return for every $1 invested in SEL programs.
The study, initiated in 2011 and followed up in 2017, demonstrated the positive impact of SEL in various aspects:
13% Increase in Academic Performance
Students with SEL showed a 13-percentile point increase in academic performance.
Enhanced Skills and Behavior
SEL participants exhibited enhanced social and emotional skills, attitudes, and behavior.
Lower Conduct Issues
Participants experienced lower levels of conduct issues and emotional distress.
Reduced Substance Abuse
Alcohol and substance abuse were significantly reduced among SEL participants by 40% - 60%.
Increased Reporting
Victims of abuse or bullying were 9 times more likely to report incidents.
Higher College Acceptance
Acceptance into prestigious colleges was 16 times higher for those with SEL programs.
Lower Divorce Rates
Lower divorce rates were observed.
Supportive Environment
77% of students reported feeling comfortable seeking guidance from the Program teacher.
What our Schools Say
Anonymous Surveys Conducted Post Curriculum
Completion Reflect Insights From Hundreds of Participants.
81.9% of Students Surveyed
Look forward to their Our Path class.
93% of Teachers Surveyed
Believe SEL is important for the in-school student experience.
83% of Principals Surveyed
Say SEL made a meaningful difference in their school.
Testimonials
On a regular basis, teachers from all over write in to tell us what they love about Our Path.
“I started the unit on Creating a Positive Body Image this week for 7th grade girls. I used the Our Path unit as a base and created my own lesson around it based on what I thought my students would respond well to. What happened after that has not happened very frequently in my years teaching middle school. They listened to and responded to each other. The girls were able to conduct themselves appropriately and respectfully while having a discussion about beauty (from within as well as external). This discussion led them to move into the next activity (defining body image) more smoothly and with more interest and enthusiasm. More than any other SEL program we have used in the past, the Our Path/Darcheinu lessons, combined with the “live” support of Avi and Shira, are proving to be an excellent resource. Thank you!
Mrs. Stephanie Samuels
Teacher
Maimonides, Boston MA
“Our Path SEL is a wonderful program that addresses the social-emotional needs of students in Jewish day schools in a way that is culturally relevant and responsive. It is a privilege to work with their team and the curriculum lends itself to rich discussions and workshops, with topics so critical in our return to school this year. Looking forward to continued collaboration.”
Carly Namdar, M.S.Ed CSP
Director of Middle School Guidance
HALB, NY
The Our Path SEL curriculum is the greatest prevention tool any school could wish for and use comfortably because the research done covers all aspects of youngsters´ lives - physically, emotionally, socially and other things that he or she will go through during their school years. Solid values run through all the content but do not in any manner interfere with anyones personal life or beliefs. The info is updated regularly. Today we work in 3 Jewish school and meet with over 800 students. Each school is a little different. We wish every school, every parent and every child could have this opportunity in their school.
Mrs. Yvonne Attie
COMSANA Organization
Panama City, Panama
